Update 1/8/11

So I am not sure when that last post actually worked but I wrote it yesterday. Last night my luggage showed up so I have my stuff!!! So nice to have my clothes and everything, I feel way more settled now. Yesterday and today I went to the beach, two of the different beaches here. It was absolutely gorgeous and nice to get out and see more of the area. Still recovering from jet lag and time difference (it is 10 hours ahead here) but other than that things are good. It has been weird to see how the culture is different but in some ways very the same. I am still getting used to their accents here and I sometimes can't understand what they are saying. Some people are easier to understand than others but overall I am getting more used to them talking. They have had trouble with my name, they can say it but can't seem to remember what the real pronunciation is so they have given me the nickname of Ally. Which I am fine with but it has been funny to hear all the different names I have been called, Alyssa, Alisha, Allison, hahaha everything that is remotely close to my real name.
Overall things are going good, I would appreciate prayer in the area of culture shock. It hasn't been too bad but I really would like to talk with an American for a bit. Someone who understands me a little better. Other than that things are going great.